2015 GMC Sierra Denali Adds Magnetic Ride Control for Smooth Ride

GMC Sierra Denali to add magnetic-ride-control suspension

Suspension to be standard in all Sierra Denali models

Magnetic ride control uses magnets to adjust firmness of suspension

The 2015 GMC Sierra Denali will offer improved ride quality thanks to a high-tech new feature dubbed magnetic ride control. Already available on several Cadillac models, magnetic ride control gives drivers an improved ride without sacrificing handling, and its arrival in the 2015 Sierra Denali marks the first time that General Motors has offered the unique feature in a pickup.

According to General Motors, magnetic ride control will be standard in all 2015 Sierra Denali models. That's good news for shoppers interested in a plush truck with excellent suspension because the Sierra Denali is one of the most upscale pickups on the market, and magnetic ride control offers a highly comfortable driving experience. Using magnets that can tighten and loosen when necessary, the system allows the best of all worlds: a firm, tight ride when cornering and a comfortable, loose feel over bumps.

"With magnetic ride control, the 2015 Sierra Denali delivers a smoother, more confident driving experience without sacrificing the capabilities customers expect from a GMC truck," said Jeff Luke, GM's executive chief engineer. "The responsiveness of the system makes this full-size truck feel and drive like a luxury vehicle -- and one that's more comfortable on long trips, especially when trailering."

Currently, magnetic ride control is only available in a few General Motors models, including the Chevrolet Corvette sports car, the automaker's Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon full-size SUVs and several Cadillac products. Adding it to a pickup is an unusual step, but to us, the feature will seem right at home in the Denali.

The Sierra Denali is a true luxury truck, boasting a base price tag above $49,000 and a list of standard equipment that includes opulent items such as leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, a 7-speaker Bose sound system, chrome exterior accents, 12-way power seats, and a muscular 6.2-liter V8 with 425 horsepower. In fact, we're a little surprised that magnetic ride control didn't make it on the Sierra Denali when it was redesigned last year, and we suspect some buyers who chose last year's model will be disappointed that they missed out.

If you're interested in a 2015 GMC Sierra, the automaker says that the pickup will go on sale this fall.

What it means to you: Magnetic ride control will be a welcome addition to the GMC Sierra lineup for the 2015 model year.

Doug DeMuro
has a wide range of automotive industry experience, from work at a Ferrari dealership to a manager for Porsche North America. A lifelong car enthusiast, Doug's eclectic vehicle purchases include a Porsche 911 Turbo, an E63 AMG wagon, an old Range Rover and a Mercedes Benz G-wagen.